Site work for Multnomah County’s new Central Courthouse begins this week, with installation of a chain link fence around the site bordered by SW Naito Parkway, SW Jefferson St., SW First Ave., and SW Madison St. Bicyclists and pedestrians will no longer be able to use the closed ramp from southbound SW Naito Parkway to the Hawthorne Bridge eastbound. The ramp has been closed to motor vehicles since 1997. It will be removed this winter because the property will be used for the new courthouse.

Bicyclists and pedestrians can access the Hawthorne Bridge south sidewalk from SW Madison St. or from northbound SW Naito Parkway/Waterfront Park.

Hoffman Construction of Portland is the general contractor for the Central Courthouse, which is estimated to cost $300 million. Site preparation this fall will include removal of vegetation and the closed Veritable Quandary restaurant. Utility relocation work will begin in January. Excavation for the foundation of the 17-story building will follow in February. The L-shaped courthouse is scheduled to open in 2020.